1989 BMW Z1 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 98 kg more than 1989 BMW Z1.
Because 1989 BMW Z1 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW Z1. (231 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW Z1 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z1 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1348 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
